The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has distanced himself from claims that he acts as a spokesperson for President Bola Tinubu or the federal government, saying his role is strictly focused on the administration of Abuja.
Wike made the clarification on Friday morning during his monthly media chat in Abuja, where he addressed key issues concerning FCT projects, governance, and development plans.
Responding to online reports suggesting he often defends Tinubu’s policies, Wike dismissed the allegations as baseless.
He described the publications circulating on social media as “junks” that do not deserve his attention.
“I don’t read those junks; I’m very focused,” the minister said. “I am not speaking for the government. I’m only letting the world know what is happening under the Tinubu administration and what we are doing in this territory.”
The former Rivers State governor emphasized that his duty is to communicate FCT’s progress, policies, and ongoing projects, not to serve as a mouthpiece for the presidency.
“I am not a spokesperson for the government. I am only talking about the activities of the Federal Capital Territory. If I don’t do it, whose responsibility is it?” he asked rhetorically.
Wike also dismissed rumors that he had fallen ill or that President Tinubu had barred him from addressing the media.
“You talked about falling sick we are all human beings; anybody can fall sick. But it’s unfortunate, I never fell sick,” he said. “Someone even said the president has banned me from the chat.
How can the president ban me from letting the people know about what the administration is doing, particularly as it pertains to the FCT?”
Wike’s remarks come amid growing speculation about his political alignment and influence within Tinubu’s government.
Known for his outspoken nature, Wike has repeatedly defended his decisions in the FCT, including controversial policies on land recovery and demolition drives, which he insists are aimed at restoring order in the capital city.